Lee Kang-in. [Yonhap]
Lee Kang-in. [Yonhap]

Lee Kang-in (25) is set to make his official debut for Atletico Madrid in Spain's Primera Liga.

Atletico will host Malaga at Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid on Thursday at 4 a.m. (Korean Standard Time) in the opening round of the 2026-27 Primera Liga season.

Lee joined Atletico this summer after three years at Paris Saint-Germain in France.

He signed his official contract with Atletico on July 25 and joined team training on Aug. 11. His integration was delayed due to administrative procedures related to his military service obligations.

Atletico manager Diego Simeone has assessed Lee as a player capable of operating as a left-sided attacker, second striker or attacking midfielder.

The Primera Liga is familiar territory for Lee. He came through Valencia's youth academy and has previously played in the league for both Valencia and Mallorca.

His adaptation to the Primera Liga is therefore expected to be smooth.

Atletico held an official unveiling ceremony for Lee at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Tuesday.

"I'm really happy to join such a great club. I'm full of excitement at the prospect of helping the team and lifting trophies," Lee said at the ceremony. "I came here with the ambition to win every competition."

On his decision to move to Atletico, Lee said: "I've lived in Spain since I was young, so I knew very well what a great club this is. From the moment the transfer was decided, all I wanted was to join the team and win." He added, "I came here with great ambition. I will work hard to bring joy to all the fans."

Lee also expressed confidence about working under Simeone. "I'm really happy to be with him. The atmosphere in the team is great," he said. "This year we will win many competitions and bring joy to the fans."


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